Networked Legitimacy in Crisis and State Failure: Influencers, Digital Publics, and the Derna Floods in Libya

ABSTRACT This study investigates the role of social media influencers (SMIs) in crisis communication during the 2023 floods in Derna, Libya, caused by Hurricane Daniel. Using the NodeXL Pro plugin and social network analysis (SNA) from the X platform, the paper identifies key actors and communication clusters within the crisis‐related discussion and how SMIs disseminated information, mobilised support, and interacted within different groups during the crisis. The results reveal that SMIs were crucial in providing real‐time updates, raising awareness, and coordinating relief efforts. Nine key influencer groups were identified, highlighting the multifaceted nature of social media's influence on disaster response. These actors often functioned as intermediaries between institutional sources, journalists, and online audiences. We introduced the concept of networked legitimacy, suggesting that authority in digital crisis environments may emerge from actors' structural positions within communication networks rather than solely from institutional authority. Positive posts were associated with greater engagement, aid distribution, and volunteer mobilisation. The findings contribute to the transformative potential of social networks in crisis communication and call for enhanced support and training for emergency influencers.